What happens when professional connections turn into real, life-giving friendships?In this special episode of The Whole Woman Podcast, co-hosts Kim and Rachel welcome their very first guest, their dear friend Melissa Crook, founder of the Embracing Layers Network and creator of the FEEL Framework (Finding Empowerment + Embracing Layers).This is a heartfelt, honest conversation about women’s friendships in midlife, the stories we’ve been told about competition, and the freedom that comes when we choose curiosity, kindness, and connection instead. If you’ve ever wondered how to make friends as an adult, how to navigate shifting seasons (empty nest, moves, career changes), or how to build relationships that feel safe and true, you’re in the right place.In this episode, we talk about:* How Kim and Rachel met Melissa through podcasting, and how that friendship grew into real sisterhood* Why women have been pitted against each other, and how we can rewrite that narrative* The difference between gossip and processing something with a trusted friend* Setting boundaries with “same complaint, different day” relationships* How friendships change over time, and why not every shift has to be a fallout* What it looks like to be a woman who connects women without forcing it* Raising strong daughters, unlearning old scripts, and choosing compassion over comparison* Building community and empowerment through the Embracing Layers Network and the FEEL FrameworkMelissa also shares the heart behind her work, including her podcast, panels, book, workshops, and resources that help women live “self-full” and show up healthier in every part of life.If you’re craving deeper connection, healthier friendships, and a more grounded way to show up as a woman in this season, we hope this conversation feels like an exhale.Connect with Melissa (Embracing Layers Network):Website: https://www.embracinglayers.comPodcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/28BAIs6taDllDEV96hGtdL?si=16ec97b0c10147fbInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/embracinglayers/Let’s keep the conversation going: What does friendship look like for you in this season of life? Have your friendships shifted as you’ve grown? Drop a comment and tell us what you’re learning.

In today’s episode, Rachel and Kim dive into a real-life conversation many women are having right now: What does it take to set up a second home, without stress, overspending, or filling it with “what if” clutter?Kim shares her experience as a snowbird spending winters in Florida, including the challenges of moving between homes, packing for three months at a time, and realizing just how many “everyday essentials” you don’t think about until they’re missing (pizza cutter, anyone?).If you’re buying a winter home, summer home, or second property, this episode will help you think through what matters most—especially when you want your new space to feel calm, comfortable, and truly like home.In this episode, we talk about:~ Snowbird life: living in Florida part-time~ What to bring vs. what to buy for a second home~ Kitchen must-haves and daily lifestyle essentials~ How to stock a condo without wasting money~ Being intentional with purchases and avoiding clutter~ Creating a cozy space for family visits, even in a smaller home~ Why “home” is emotional, not just logisticalWhether you're dreaming of a second home or happily renting someone else's, this conversation will encourage you to slow down, choose wisely, and create a space that supports the life you want to live.Like, subscribe, and share this episode with a friend who’s planning a move, buying a second home, or living the snowbird lifestyle.Have a topic you want us to cover next? Drop it in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!#SnowbirdLife #WholeWomanPodcast #HomeEssentials #IntentionalLiving

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of The Whole Woman Podcast, Kim and Rachel dive deep into manifesting in 2026—not through hustle, resolutions, or empty affirmations, but through the intentional practice of choosing a Word of the Year.Together, they unpack how a single guiding word can shape boundaries, clarify calling, restore joy, and help women stop trying to be all things to all people. Kim reflects on her past words—Joy, Grow, and now Called—sharing how unchecked growth led to burnout and how discernment, pruning, and purpose are essential for the year ahead. Rachel brings her grounding perspective on Gratitude as a lifelong foundation and introduces Transformed as her word for 2026, marking the end of old patterns that no longer serve her.This episode explores:How choosing a word can support goal setting, emotional wellness, and spiritual growthWhy availability is not a leadership trait—and how boundaries protect joyThe impact of technology, overcommitment, and constant accessibility on modern womenWhy it’s never too late to reset your direction (your year doesn’t start on January 1)How a personal word can become a daily compass for focus, peace, and purposeIf you’re craving clarity, freedom from overwhelm, and a gentler way to manifest the year ahead, this conversation will help you slow down, reflect, and choose intention over pressure.